Managers might complain about the number of games they have to take in, but that is part of the appeal to supporters – those who line the pockets of the critics.

Games on Boxing Day are part of British culture, as are those between Christmas and New Year.

Why change things?

Derby County captain Richard Keogh is among those who believe that the schedule is fine as it is, with the combative defender not about to offer any excuses at seeing the fixtures come thick and fast.

He told the Rams’ official website: “I am looking forward to a good run of games. There are some tough games in there, but they are games that we are really excited for. We have played a lot of games already with the cup run, so in that sense, it will be nice to get a bit more recovery time in between games.

“It’s always an exciting period for everyone and I think it is periods like this that make English football so great. People talk about introducing breaks at Christmas, but everyone enjoys it. It can put you in a good position and help you get to where you want to be.

“You look to see if you have got a long trip away (when the fixtures are first released), because obviously, that is not great for us as players or supporters.

“It’s worked out quite well. As you get older and you have been involved in a few Christmas periods, you get used to it. You plan yourself around it knowing it is going to be a busy period. It separates the English game from any other league and it’s an exciting time really.”

Championship promotion hopefuls Derby face Birmingham City on Boxing Day, before bringing the curtain down on the calendar year at home to Leeds United on December 30.

Chris Burton

Chris is a freelance journalist with a passion for all major sports. He has spent much of his career to date focusing on the wonderful world of football, across all levels. He has also had the pleasure of interviewing a diverse mix of sportsmen and women – including Gareth Bale, Frank Lampard, Xabi Alonso, Marcel Desailly, Roy Hodgson, Manu Tuilagi, Jonny Wilkinson, Nicola Adams and Ed Clancy.